Volvo's Concept C Coupe Wants to Put a Thrill Back into Volvo Ownership

The new Concept C Coupe is a powerful two-litre petrol and electric hybrid Volvo that wants to get people emotional about the company's output again, rather than another car built to be happiest ferrying pensioners to Tesco at a solid 45mph.

Set to be fully unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, the car apparently takes some design inspiration from the classic old P1800, as driven by Roger Moore in The Saint back in the 1960s. The tech will be rather more modern, though, incorporating a touchscreen and head-up display, plus an "autonomous steering" system to help avoid accidents.

Thomas Ingenlath, the car maker's new Senior Vice President of Design, says: "The last few years car design has become increasingly standardized and streamlined, and too often defined by cluttered and overly complex design. While other brands try too hard to look luxurious and muscular, Volvo Cars will stand out as the calm, confident and naturally powerful challenger. We have no ambition to blend in, and the Concept Coupe efficiently manifests how iconic design will reinforce Volvo's identity."

Two more concept designs will appear from Volvo over the coming months, which will set out its car design stall for the coming years. [Jalopnik]